U3A South Australia Incorporated

Overview

U3A South Australia Incorporated is a nonprofit organisation serving as the peak body and support network for University of the Third Age (U3A) member organisations in South Australia. It operates as an umbrella organisation, providing support to its affiliate groups rather than offering courses directly.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of U3A South Australia is to facilitate affordable learning and leisure activities for individuals over 50 who are no longer in full-time employment. The focus is on maintaining the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of this age group. The organisation achieves this by supporting a network of autonomous U3As across South Australia.

Governance and Structure

U3A South Australia does not offer courses but instead supports its member U3As, which are autonomous associations run by democratically elected management committees. Administration and office functions are typically performed by members on a voluntary basis.

Programs and Initiatives

One notable initiative is the Statewide Online program, which provides online courses to make learning accessible across the state. This program enhances computing confidence among seniors and offers improved access to courses for members who face travel and mobility challenges.

Role in the U3A Movement

U3A South Australia is part of a broader Australian and international U3A movement, which began in Britain and was introduced to Australia in 1984. The movement emphasizes self-help and collective learning among older adults, leveraging their skills and knowledge to create educational opportunities.

National Context

Alongside similar state bodies like the Victorian Network and U3A Network NSW, U3A South Australia contributes to the U3A Australia Alliance, fostering a collaborative environment for adult education across the country. The U3A movement in Australia is renowned for being the largest per capita globally, with extensive reach and rapid expansion.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5ef3dc8e-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/3a240699-f491-eb11-b1ac-000d3ad1204c [2] https://u3asouthaustralia.org.au [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5ef3dc8e-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile [4] https://u3asouthaustralia.org.au/support/ [5] https://nsw.u3anet.org.au/the-u3a-movement/